A Beginner’s Guide to Lubing Mechanical Keyboard Switches

If you're into mechanical keyboards, you've likely heard about lubing switches. It’s a common mod among enthusiasts, but if you're new to the world of custom keyboards, you might be wondering, Why is lubing switches important, and how do I do it? In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the basics of lubing mechanical keyboard switches and why it can make a big difference in the feel and sound of your keys.

Why Lube Your Switches?

Lubing your switches can vastly improve the performance of your mechanical keyboard. Here are the main reasons people choose to lube their switches:

• Smoother Keystrokes
  When you lube your switches, you're reducing friction between the moving parts, resulting in a much smoother keypress. The goal is to eliminate any scratchiness or roughness you may feel, making the typing experience more enjoyable.
• Improved Sound
  Lubing switches can also reduce noise. A well-lubed switch produces a softer, more refined sound, making your keyboard quieter and more pleasant to type on. Whether you're working in a shared space or simply prefer a less noisy setup, lubing can make a big difference.
• Increased Longevity
  Over time, the moving parts inside your switches can wear down. Lubing helps reduce the amount of friction between them, which can potentially extend the life of your switches and keep them functioning smoothly for a longer time.

What You’ll Need

Before you get started, you'll need a few tools and materials:

• Lubing Brush: A small, fine brush is essential for applying lubricant evenly to the switch components.
• Switch Opener: This tool allows you to safely open your switches without damaging them.
• Lubricant: There are various types of lubricants specifically designed for mechanical keyboard switches. Some popular options include Krytox 205g0 (for a smoother, quieter sound) or Tribosys 3204 (a lighter, more tactile lube). Choose based on the type of switch you're working with and the sound/feel you're aiming for.
• Tweezers / Stem Holder: Useful for handling small parts without causing damage.
• A clean workspace: You don’t want any dust or debris to get into your switches during the process.

The Lubing Process: Step-by-Step

• Disassemble Your Keyboard
  First, you need to remove the switches from the PCB (printed circuit board). This may involve desoldering the switches if you're working with a soldered keyboard. For hot-swappable boards, you can simply pull the switches out.
• Open the Switches
  Use your switch opener to carefully open each switch. Gently press on the edges of the switch to separate the top housing from the bottom. You should now have access to the stem, spring, and bottom housing.
• Clean the Parts (Optional)
  If you feel your switches need cleaning, you can wipe down the stem and bottom housing with a microfiber cloth or use compressed air to clear away any dust or debris. This step is optional but can help ensure a clean, smooth lubing process.
• Apply the Lubricant
  Using your lubing brush, carefully apply a thin layer of lubricant to the moving parts of the switch. Focus on the inside of the top housing (where the stem slides), the stem’s sides, and the bottom housing’s interior. Be cautious not to over-lube, as too much lubricant can cause a sluggish feel or attract dust. 
• Reassemble the Switches
  Once each part is properly lubed, carefully reassemble the switch by placing the stem back into the bottom housing and clipping the top housing back in place. Repeat this for each switch.
• Reinstall the Switches
  After all switches have been lubed and reassembled, you can reinstall them back into your keyboard, whether soldered or hot-swappable.

Tips for Better Results

• Don’t Over-Lube: Applying too much lubricant can lead to a "gummy" or "sluggish" feel. A little goes a long way.
• Lubing Spring: Some people like to lube their springs to reduce pinging sounds. You can lightly lube the spring by rubbing it between your fingers or using a bag lube method (placing springs in a plastic bag with a bit of lube and shaking it gently).
• Take Your Time: Lubing can be a time-consuming process, but the results are well worth the effort. Don’t rush it, especially if this is your first time.

Final Thoughts

Lubing your switches is one of the best ways to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience. Whether you're trying to eliminate scratchiness, reduce noise, or prolong the life of your switches, proper lubing can make a noticeable difference. While it may take some time and patience, the end result will be a smoother, quieter, and more satisfying keyboard.So, if you’re ready to take your mechanical keyboard to the next level, grab your tools and get lubing! Your fingers (and your ears) will thank you.